About this disease
What it concerns
It takes two to have children. In about half of the cases, the cause is to be found in the man due to poor sperm quality. Possible causes of infertility are testicular disorders, hormonal disorders, genetic disorders, infections/inflammations such as venereal diseases, environmental factors (heat stress, pesticides, heavy metals, solvents), exogenous factors (medication, nicotine, alcohol, drugs, polychemotherapy), immunological factors and other factors such as obesity, erectile and ejaculatory disorders.
Symptoms and consequences
If pregnancy has not occurred following one year of regular unprotected sexual intercourse and the female partner is not found to be the cause, then then this is designated as a fertility disorder or infertility in the man.
How we can help you
Examination and diagnosis
First, the patient undergoes a basic diagnosis, which will include a detailed interview, ideally with their partner, as well as a physical examination. This is often supplemented by an ultrasound examination of the testicles. This can detect disorders of the testicles as well as the vas deferens, epididymis and prostate. A so-called spermiogram provides information on the number, mobility and appearance of the sperm, as well as their functionality. The health status of the partner is also discussed.
Treatment
Depending on the risk factors or specific causes for the limited level of fertility, different treatment concepts can be defined. This can include antibiotic therapy in the case of an infection of the seminal ducts, or surgery in the case of testicular varicose veins (varicocele). The elimination of interfering factors such as certain medications, nicotine and drugs or occupational stresses such as pollutants or heat can also have a positive effect. Vitamins and hormones can also be used to improve sperm count and quality.